work (one's) way
To work methodically in order to proceed in a certain direction. It may seem like an overwhelming job, but we just have to work our way from room to room. The military team worked their way through the building, taking our enemies on each floor as they went.
work one's way
Exert oneself to proceed in a particular direction; also, finance a project by working. For example, The painters are working their way from the top floor to the basement, or I'm trying to work my way into the publishing world, or She's working her way through college. [Second half of 1800s]